At the back of your throat, two masses of tissue called tonsils act as filters, trapping germs that could otherwise enter your airways and cause infection. They also produce antibodies to fight infection. But sometimes the tonsils themselves become infected. Overwhelmed by bacteria or viruses, they swell and become inflamed, a condition known as tonsillitis.
Tonsillitis is common, especially in children. The condition can occur occasionally or recur frequently.
Causes and Symptoms of Tonsillitis
Bacterial and viral infections can cause tonsillitis. A common cause is Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Other common causes include:
Adenoviruses
Influenza virus
Epstein-Barr virus
Parainfluenza viruses
Enteroviruses
Herpes simplex virus
The main symptoms of tonsillitis are inflammation and swelling of the tonsils, sometimes severe enough to block the airways. Other symptoms include:
Throat pain or tenderness
Redness of the tonsils
A white or yellow coating on the tonsils
Painful blisters or ulcers on the throat
Headache
Loss of appetite
Ear pain
Difficulty swallowing or breathing through the mouth
Swollen glands in the neck or jaw area
Fever, chills
Bad breath
